AscoLotus | Cambodia

This charming kingdom is known worldwide for two main reasons: the greatest genocide in history carried out by the Khmer Rouge in the ‘70 and, above all, by the wonders dating back to the ancient great Khmer Empire.

From the 9th to the 15th century AD the Khmer Empire allowed its kings to control and exert influence over Southeast Asia and accumulate immense power and wealth.

During this golden age, this ancient civilization built monumental temples, including Angkor Wat, the largest religious complex in the world, and played a fundamental role in spreading Hinduism and, subsequently, Buddhism across Southeast Asia.

But Cambodia is more than its ancient temples. Capital Phnom Penh, called "The Pearl of Asia" during the French Protectorate, offers a charming riverside setting, cultural renaissance and graceful French architecture.

Thanks to nearby Angkor temples, second city Siem Reap has become a cosmopolitan tourist destination with a wide range of hotels, restaurants and a colorful nightlife.

Despite the rapid development, Sihanoukville has remained the jumping-off point for the best of Cambodia's white-sand beaches and castaway-cool southern islands

Cambodia's countryside is characterized by the rhythm of rural life and landscapes of dazzling rice paddies and swaying sugar palms.

The wild and mountainous north-eastern region is home to Cambodia’s ethnic minorities and an abundance of wildlife and natural attractions.

Surely you will not forget the smile of the Cambodia’s people. Despite the Khmers have been to hell and back, struggling through years of bloodshed, poverty and political instability, they have prevailed with their smiles intact.